Berkshire Orthopedics LLC

A Division of Keystone Orthopaedic Specialists, LLC

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How Do I Know When It’s Time to See an Orthopedic Specialist?

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when to see an orthopedic doctor

Orthopedic conditions and injuries affect parts of the musculoskeletal system, including the elbow, knee and shoulder joints. Depending on the specific case, orthopedic issues may be managed at home, or they may require treatment by an orthopedic specialist to be resolved. Patients experiencing symptoms of an orthopedic injury or condition often wonder: How do I know when to see an orthopedic doctor? Let’s discuss a few signs which may indicate that it’s time to visit an orthopedic physician.

When to See an Orthopedic Doctor: 4 Signs That It’s Time

  • The issue is interfering with your everyday life – Occasional joint discomfort is a normal part of aging and typically no cause for alarm. However, if symptoms get to the point that you are consistently struggling to perform your everyday activities, seeing an orthopedic specialist is a wise course of action.
  • You are experiencing limited range of motion – Reduced joint flexibility may be a sign of a condition such as arthritis. To prevent a joint disease and its symptoms from worsening, it is crucial to seek treatment for the condition as early as possible.
  • Your pain becomes chronic – Many minor orthopedic injuries resolve within a few days or weeks through the use of an at-home regimen called the RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) method. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. If pain and other symptoms persist for more than 12 weeks, it becomes a chronic condition. When a musculoskeletal issue gets to this point, it is advisable to seek care from an orthopedic expert.
  • You have sustained a soft tissue injury & are not improving after 48 hours – In some cases, acute orthopedic injuries may need to be promptly addressed by a professional. Using the RICE method can help to ease pain and swelling caused by a soft tissue injury such as a twisted ankle or knee. However, if you have not seen significant improvement after 48 hours of treating an injury at home, you should make an appointment with an orthopedic physician as soon as possible.

Wondering when to see an orthopedic doctor? If one or more of the above is true for you, it is in your best interest to be examined by an orthopedic specialist.

Dr. Stephen Soffer Provides Expert Orthopedic Care in Wyomissing, PA

Patients in Wyomissing, PA and the surrounding area trust Dr. Stephen Soffer for world-class orthopedic care with personalized attention. Recognized for his expertise in performing arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder, knee and elbow, Dr. Soffer is one of the top orthopedic doctors in the country. He prioritizes minimally invasive treatments whenever possible to speed patient recovery time and optimize treatment outcomes.

Patients of Dr. Soffer can attest to the skillful, compassionate care he provides. Take a look at this review from Jim F.:

“As a real estate agent, my knees had gotten to the point where they affected my job. Dr. Soffer replaced my left knee and now I often forget it is a replacement. In fact, my right knee hardly ever bothers me. Thanks, Doc for improving my life.”

If you are living with persistent symptoms which point to an orthopedic problem, Dr. Soffer is here to help you get back to a pain-free lifestyle. Call our office at 610-375-4949 to set up an in-person or telemedicine appointment.

Does a Torn Meniscus Require Surgery?

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does a torn meniscus require surgery

In the knee joint, two disk-shaped pieces of cartilage called the menisci function to absorb shock and provide stability. While this essential cartilage is quite resilient, forceful rotation of the knee can result in a meniscus tear. The meniscus may also degenerate over time. Depending on the size and nature of the injury, torn meniscus symptoms can vary greatly. In severe cases, the resulting pain, swelling and knee instability may be debilitating. Patients experiencing symptoms of a meniscus tear often ask: Does a torn meniscus require surgery, or can this common knee condition be treated conservatively? Read on to learn more about how the right treatment for a meniscus tear is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Does a Torn Meniscus Require Surgery?

If you are having symptoms of a torn meniscus, you are likely wondering what your treatment options are. Does a torn meniscus require surgery in all cases, or is it possible for the issue to be resolved with nonoperative treatment? The answer to this question will vary from patient to patient, as it is dependent upon numerous factors. All of the following will influence which type of treatment is most appropriate:

  • Size & grade (severity) of the tear
  • Location of the tear (medial or lateral)
  • Pattern of the tear (radial, horizontal, etc.)
  • Patient’s health history
  • Patient’s age
  • The patient’s activity level

Generally speaking, meniscus tears that are smaller in size, lower in grade or located on the outer edge tend to respond best to conservative treatment. First-line methods might include resting the knee, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms and taking pain relieving medications. In contrast, larger, more severe tears – as well as those located on the inner edge of the meniscus – are more likely to require surgery in order to be completely resolved.

Often, surgical meniscus repair is not necessary for older, less active patients, as they typically find that the tear does not significantly affect them in everyday life. On the other hand, young and active individuals opt for surgery more frequently. This is because surgical meniscus repair boosts a patient’s chances of resuming their normal activities in a shorter time frame.

Get Relief from Knee Symptoms with Cutting-Edge Treatment from Dr. Soffer

If you suspect that a meniscus tear may be behind your lingering knee discomfort, you are likely curious to know: Does a torn meniscus require surgery? As we explained above, there are many factors which should be considered to determine whether surgical meniscus repair is necessary.

For patients seeking expert, individualized knee care in the Reading, PA area, Dr. Stephen Soffer is a highly qualified choice with years of experience treating meniscus tears. When you visit his office, Dr. Soffer will thoroughly examine your knee and carefully consider your unique case in order to determine the best course of treatment for you. Should your condition necessitate surgical repair, you can fully depend on Dr. Soffer. He specializes in both open and minimally invasive arthroscopic knee surgery.

Ready to discuss your symptoms and treatment options with a compassionate orthopedic surgeon? Call our office at 610-375-4949 to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment with Dr. Soffer.

Is There a Treatment for Torn Rotator Cuff Without Surgery?

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treatment for torn rotator cuff without surgery

A rotator cuff tear may cause shoulder pain, tenderness, reduced range of motion and other potentially disabling symptoms. When seeking to resolve their rotator cuff symptoms, many patients wonder: “Is there a treatment for torn rotator cuff without surgery?” Indeed, there are several nonsurgical treatment options which can help alleviate symptoms. Generally speaking, nonsurgical options are usually prescribed first for partial rotator cuff tears, with surgery being a last-resort option in most cases. Full thickness rotator cuff tears in the active patient will usually require surgery to heal the rotator cuff back to bone.

Finding the Right Nonsurgical Treatment for a Rotator Cuff Injury

The right treatment for a rotator cuff tear will vary on a case-by-case basis. When creating a treatment plan, an orthopedic physician will consider several things, including the patient’s age and the severity of their injury. For patients seeking treatment for torn rotator cuff without surgery, here are a few options which may be recommended:

  • Rest – While it is uncommon for a rotator cuff tear to heal on its own without treatment, rest can help. Taking time off from activities will prevent the tear and associated symptoms from getting worse.
  • Physical Therapy – Performing physical therapy exercises designed to strengthen the rotator cuff can go a long way to improve range of motion and overall shoulder function.
  • Medication – Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling and manage pain caused by a rotator cuff injury.
  • Stem Cell Therapy – Stem cell therapy may reduce pain and restore shoulder function for partial rotator cuff tears. It can be a viable choice for active patients who have not had success with the aforementioned treatments but do not wish to undergo surgery.

Generally, patients are advised to try nonsurgical treatment for partial rotator cuff tears as a first-line option. In the event that these therapies fail to offer relief, a patient might consider arthroscopic, open or mini-open surgery (a combination of the other two types).

Dr. Soffer Provides Advanced Treatments for Rotator Cuff Injuries

If you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain, it may be time to visit Dr. Soffer for diagnosis and treatment. With years of experience in treating rotator cuff tears and other orthopedic injuries, Dr. Soffer has all the knowledge and state-of-the-art technology needed to skillfully address your shoulder issue. Should you need surgery, he specializes in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, a minimally invasive surgical treatment option.

If you’re ready to get relief from your shoulder symptoms, call our office at 610-375-4949 to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment.

Dealing With Elbow Arthritis: Symptoms, Treatment and More

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There are several types of arthritis which can affect the elbow, including osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Common elbow arthritis symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness and reduced range of motion in the elbow joint. If severe, these symptoms may make it difficult for a patient to perform everyday activities which involve elbow movement, such as lifting or reaching for objects. Fortunately, there are several treatment options which can help relieve discomfort and improve elbow function.

Dealing With Elbow Arthritis: A Few Possible Treatment Options

If you are suffering from persistent, burdensome elbow arthritis symptoms, there are a number of treatments your orthopedic doctor may suggest considering. A few common ones include:

  • Rest and activity modification, which can help to prevent worsening symptoms
  • Over-the-counter pain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Heat and ice therapy, which is known to alleviate muscle stiffness and decrease swelling
  • Elbow splints and braces, which can help support the joint and reduce swelling
  • Cortisone injections, which can offer temporary pain relief

Typically, conservative treatment for elbow arthritis will be recommended before surgery. In the event that first-line treatments fail to address a patient’s elbow arthritis symptoms, however, open or arthroscopic elbow surgery may be the next option. Elbow arthroscopy may also be used to remove bone spurs in the early stages of elbow arthritis.

Trust Dr. Stephen Soffer for World-Class Elbow Care

Elbow arthritis is a common condition, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. At any age, it can be very painful and may even compromise a patient’s ability to live an independent and fulfilling life.

If you are seeking lasting relief from elbow arthritis symptoms, it is important to see a qualified orthopedic doctor with extensive experience in diagnosing elbow issues and providing cutting-edge treatment. Dr. Stephen Soffer is a skilled and compassionate choice for patients in Reading, PA and the surrounding area.

Committed to helping patients effectively manage their symptoms, Dr. Soffer stays up to date on all the latest and most advanced treatments for elbow arthritis. Specializing in both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options, he helped to author the first textbook on minimally invasive elbow arthroscopy with Dr. James Andrews.

If you would like to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment to address your elbow symptoms with Dr. Soffer, call our office anytime at 610-375-4949.

What Is a SLAP Tear of the Shoulder & How Is It Treated?

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The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint consisting of several different muscles, bones and tendons. Surrounding the shoulder socket is the labrum, a fibrous ring of cartilage that helps to stabilize the joint. Although this tissue is quite strong, it can be injured through repetitive shoulder movement or acute trauma. One of the most common labral injuries is called a SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) tear. What is a SLAP tear, and what are the treatment options for this shoulder injury? Read on for a detailed overview.

What Is a SLAP Tear of the Shoulder?

As the name suggests, a SLAP injury affects the anterior (front) part of the labrum as well as the posterior (back) part. The biceps tendon may also be affected by a SLAP tear, as this injury occurs at the point where the bicep attaches to the labrum. Common symptoms of a SLAP tear include decreased shoulder strength and range of motion, pain with movement and a popping/locking sensation.

There are many scenarios which can lead to a SLAP tear of the shoulder. An acute SLAP injury may occur due to:

  • Forceful pulling, lifting or overhead movement
  • Shoulder dislocation
  • Falling onto an outstretched arm
  • Car accidents

Aside from these acute trauma-related causes, a SLAP tear may also be the result of wear and tear over time. Patients over the age of 30 often develop fraying or tearing in the labrum as part of the normal aging process. Further, individuals with an occupation or hobby that requires repetitive overhead movement are at a heightened risk for labral injuries.

How Is a SLAP Tear Treated?

Now that you know the answer to “what is a SLAP tear?” and how this injury might occur, you might be curious to learn about treatment options. Regardless of cause, SLAP tears are typically treated using nonsurgical methods to start. First-line treatments might include:

  • Rest – For minor tears, taking a break from activities can promote healing.
  • NSAIDs – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications can be highly effective in reducing swelling and pain in the shoulder joint.
  • Physical therapy – Exercises designed to improve range of motion and flexibility may also help to treat the symptoms of a SLAP tear. 

In the event that a patient fails to get relief from these methods, he or she may consider arthroscopic labral repair. This minimally invasive treatment allows the orthopedic surgeon to reattach the torn tissues without cutting through the shoulder muscles.

Find Relief with Shoulder Treatment from Dr. Soffer

Offering cutting-edge shoulder treatment for patients in and around Reading, PA, Dr. Stephen Soffer specializes in nonsurgical options for SLAP tears as well as arthroscopic labral repair. If you are living with lingering shoulder pain, call our office at 610-375-4949 to schedule an in-person or telemedicine appointment. As always, we are here to offer the treatment you need to get back to doing what you love.

What Is Involved in Rehab After Knee Replacement?

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rehab after knee replacement

Chronic knee conditions such as osteoarthritis can often be effectively managed with nonsurgical methods. If first-line treatments fail to offer sufficient relief from symptoms, however, a patient may consider knee replacement surgery. Following the surgeon-recommended guidelines for rehab after knee replacement is essential to speed recovery and maximize the chances of getting excellent long-term results from surgery.

What Is Involved in Rehab After Knee Replacement?

Before committing to partial or total knee replacement surgery, patients should understand what the rehabilitation process will entail. Here is the standard post-operative timeline:

  • The First 24 Hours After Surgery: Rehab after knee replacement should start shortly after surgery, while you are still in the hospital. It is crucial to begin strengthening your operated knee as soon as possible. Within 24 hours, you will be instructed to stand and walk using an assistive device.
  • Discharge from the Hospital: Within 1-2 days, you should begin to gain some strength and range of motion in your knee. As this occurs, you should aim to gradually increase your activity level and reduce reliance on your assistive device. Before being discharged to your home or a rehab facility, you should ideally be able to perform simple daily tasks on your own, walk with minimal assistance and bend your knee well.
  • Weeks 3-6: Once discharged, you will be instructed to perform physical therapy exercises which are specifically designed to further improve your knee strength and flexibility. During this period, you should be able to start walking longer distances and performing more activities without an assistive device. Assuming you’ve stuck to the suggested plan for rehab after knee replacement, you can expect to be experiencing far less swelling and inflammation by this point.
  • Weeks 7-11: As your knee strength continues to improve, you will likely be able to resume low-impact activities such as biking and swimming. Your physical therapist will assess your progress and adjust your exercise plan as needed.
  • Week 12 & Beyond: At the 12-week mark, you may very well feel fully or almost fully recovered, with little to no knee pain remaining. However, it is still important to keep in touch with your surgeon and physical therapist, at this point and moving forward. Be sure to get clearance before resuming more demanding activities, and don’t hesitate to let your doctor know if you begin to experience significant knee discomfort.

While no two patients will have the exact same recovery timeline, hopefully this gives you a general idea of what you can expect during rehab after knee replacement.

Discuss the Right Knee Treatment for You with Dr. Soffer

If you are suffering from persistent knee pain that is interfering with your life, Dr. Stephen Soffer can help you get relief. He excels in all of the latest knee treatments, including nonsurgical options as well as arthroscopic and open knee surgery.

When you visit him, Dr. Soffer will carefully consider your circumstances and use advanced diagnostic techniques to determine whether you are a good candidate for knee surgery at this time. If you are ready to schedule an appointment, call our office at 610-375-4949. We look forward to helping you regain healthy, normal knee function so that you can get back to living your life.

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